Router is the backbone of almost every work space as well as of homes these days. All thanks to the significant use of the internet. When it comes to routers, most people own one from Linksys. It’s because it offers reliable and easy to use routers. But just like other technical gadgets like your smartphone or computers need regular updates, the same goes with the Linksys router. 

 

Non installation of updates can impact the  performance of the router. So it becomes crucial to always keep it to the latest version. It not only hampers productivity and creates hindrance in other online activities but also poses a risk to the network security. Often firmware updates are overlooked by the users as they have presumption that it’s complicated to conduct this process. But if you need super smooth connectivity, then it’s high time you take the firmware upgrades seriously. Also the fact is that the firmware upgrade process is not complex when you perform it step by step. To help you out with the same, we have curated a complete and simplified guide.

Why Updating Routers Firmware Matters ?

First, remember that non-installation of updates makes the network security weak. This directly means inviting hackers who are always on a lookout to break into your network. Whereas if your router’s firmware is latest, then you automatically block the pathway that allows the entry of such hackers. So the first reason as to why updating router’s firmware matters is because of safety concerns. 

If you notice sudden disconnections, slow speeds or there is a constant issue of lag and buffering then the potential culprit behind the same can be pending firmware updates. So users who want to improve the performance should check for the latest updates. 

When Linksys adds up some new features to your routers, then you won’t be able to benefit from them if the firmware upgrade is not taken into consideration. So again upgrading router’s firmware matters. 

Moreover updates ensure that your router works well with the latest smartphones, smart TVs, and other devices. Overall, keeping your Linksys router’s firmware to the latest allows you to keep your network secure, fast, and compatible with modern technology.

Points To Consider Before Upgrading 

To conduct a smooth upgrading process, you need to consider these points:

• First ensure you have a stable and properly working internet connection. 
• Next, the device that you are using for the upgrade process needs to have a connection to the Linksys router. Build this connection through ethernet cable. 
• Most important for the upgrade, you need to know about the exact model number as well as hardware version of your router. Do not panic as these details are given clearly on the router itself. So note it down from there. 

Downloading The Firmware 

The steps for it are very simple. Here’s what you need to do:

• First visit the official Linksys support site. 
• As you get access to it, look for the Start Here section. 
• Now upon finding it, fill up the Linksys router’s model number. Then tap Enter. 
• If the model number is accurate you get access to the product page. Downwards you’ll find the option of Download. Tap on it. 
• Now by clicking on the downward arrow, you get to select the hardware version of your router. Don’t know the exact hardware version, no worries check the next note. 
• As you select the current version, you’ll get to know if the new version is available or not. By its side a download option will appear. Tap on it. 
• You’ll now be given a license agreement. Read them out once carefully and then tick mark the box indicating you agree to them. Then tap Accept. 
• Finally, the download begins. As it completes tap on Save. Thereafter tap on Close. 

Note: 

On your computer system or any smart device, open the internet browser. Like you can open chrome, internet explorer, firefox, safari or any other of your preference. Enter the accurate IP address. The default one is 192.168.1.1. Push Enter key. Give in the credentials. If not changed then use admin for both blanks in lower letter case. Now in the top corner, you’ll be able to see the current hardware version. 

Performing The Upgrade 

Now as you have the latest firmware file on your system it’s time to upgrade the Linksys router. We’ll be sharing the step-by-step details, so that even a beginner can do it properly.

✓ First activate the Linksys router. Give it some time so it can boot up.

✓ Moving further, ensure its connection to the modem. Simply use ethernet cable for the same. 

✓ Connect your device to the router on which your firmware file sits. Again you can use the ethernet wire for it. 

✓ Thereafter, open an internet browser. Ensure it is up-to-date. Doesn’t contain caches or cookies. Also use a compatible browser. You can go with chrome, firefox, Safari, edge as well as with internet explorer.

✓ Head to the address field. Fill up the IP address. It is 192.168.1.1. If customized earlier then use the assigned one only. Then hit Enter. 

✓ Fill up the login credentials. Use lower letter case to type admin for both fields. This is by default. But in case you altered these details then use the new ones only. 

✓ Finally, move to the Administration tab. Thereafter select the firmware upgrade option. 

✓ Now tap on the Browse button. Choose the file that you just downloaded on your device. Tap Open. Moving forward, hit the start upgrade option. As you do so, the process begins. You need to be patient here. Be mindful during the update do not perform any other activity as it can hamper the smooth process. 

✓ Lastly, as the upgrade finishes tap on Continue. And here the updation process ends. Now you just need to power cycle the Linksys device. For this follow three simple steps that are unplug, hold on for a minute, replug. 

For any assistance, connect to the experts.